France, Germany and the United Kingdom are preparing their own format for peace talks on Ukraine, according to The New York Times. The countries are seeking to secure a place for Europe in the negotiation process. According to European diplomats, Paris and Berlin are playing a leading role, whilst London is proceeding more cautiously due to its relationship with US President Donald Trump.
Briefly about the main points
- Three European countries are drawing up a framework for negotiations on Ukraine.
- The aim of the initiative is for Europe to play a part in the peace process.
- Paris and Berlin are described as the leading players in the coordination effort.
- London is taking the US President’s possible reaction into account.
Separate coordination alongside broader European frameworks
This new mechanism should be distinguished from the E5 format, in which Italy and Poland participate alongside France, Germany and the United Kingdom. At the E5 meeting in Berlin on 24 June, the leaders of these countries supported direct dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, with the active involvement of the US and Europe.
France and Germany also confirmed in July their readiness to contribute to security guarantees for Ukraine through «A coalition of willing participants». The Paris Declaration issued by this coalition referred, in particular, to monitoring the ceasefire, supporting the Defence Forces and mechanisms for responding to a possible new attack by Russia.
Paris and Berlin are taking the lead, whilst London is proceeding with caution
European diplomats have told the NYT that France and Germany are playing a key role in shaping the initiative. The UK is taking a more cautious approach, fearing that it might strain relations with Donald Trump.
